A "desolate" east Hull park which was under threat of closing has been rejuvenated with brand new tennis courts and a clubhouse after a charity campaigned for investment.

In 2010, Pelican Park was in "dire straits", according to ex-councillor Jan Hornby, who decided to create a community group to turn around the recreational ground's fortunes.

Seven years later, and after an investment of half a million pounds, the park is now flourishing after help from the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and Hull City Council, who have leased the park to the Friends of Pelican Park charity for the next 25 years.

Mrs Hornby said: "It's been a very rocky road with lots of battles to win and a it has been a bit of a rollercoaster.

"But to see it all come into place and to see people coming together in a community facility really is a dream come true.

From left: Paul Jubb, Jan Hornby and coach Chris Hepton at the park

"When I started, this place had had no real investment for ten years so it was in dire straits and it looked desolate.

"I can't believe the difference. It looks amazing and this is the dream that I wanted for it - to see children taking part in tennis and enjoying themselves really does give me such a buzz."

As well as investing in tennis facilities thanks to the LTA's Transforming British Tennis Together initiative, the charity has built a brand new clubhouse to turn Pelican Park into a community hub.

It holds social sessions for men and women over the age of 55 as well as volunteering projects for 18 to 25 year olds struggling to gain employment, and Mrs Hornby is keen to preserve the park's strong links with the community.

She said: "Community support is massive and community development comes in a multitude of ways.

Tennis is proving a hit with the kids at Pelican Park

"It is not just about offering sporting activities but engaging with residents too.

"It's nice to see that everybody is contributing in some way whether it be volunteering, donating or even hosting fundraising events.